635 




York 



TULL AR-MEREDITH CO. 



Chicago 



NEW PLAYS 




8 Males and 19 



By E-lizabetK F. Gviptill 
The School at Mud Hollow. A burlesque in two parts. 
Females. Time about 2 hours. Price 35 cents. 

PART I. In which is portrayed the diffieulties encountered by Miss Arabella 
Pinkham, who has come to "Mud Hollow" to assume the responsible 
duties of "Teacher" in the school. In selecting "Mud Hollow" she seeks a 
change from the city life she is accustomed to, and finds plenty of it in the 
manners, customs and dialect of the pupils. From start to finish there is 
nothing but fun. 

PART II. Which represents the last day at the school, when the proud 
parents are present to listen to the final examination of the class by the 
Supervisor and enjoy the program which is rendered by the pupils. Part 

11. offers an opportunity for about 60 minutes of the finest fun possible. 

"The School at Mud Hollow" may be given in one evening, but for those 
who would prefer to make two evenings of it, or to give only one part, we 

offer the same work announced below under the title of "The New Teacher at Mud Hollow 

School-' and "The Last Dag at Mud Hollow SchooF* either of which can be given as a 

complete entertainment without regard to the other one. 

The New Teacher at Mud Hollow School. Being Part L of THE SCHOOL AT MUD HOLLOW. 

6 Males and 14 Females. Time about 1 hour. Price 25 cents. 

The Last Day ?t Mud Hollow School. Being Part II. of THE SCHOOL AT MUD HOLLOW. 

8 Males and 19 Females. Time about 1 hour. Price 25 cents. 

Santa's Rescue 

Two mysterious pieces of paper fall into the hands of the children, one 
being found by the BOYS and one by the GIRLS. The meaning of the in- 
scription on each remains a mystery until it is discerned that by ^placing 
the papers together they have the message that the "Old Witch" of the 
North has captured "Santa" and holds him in an ice prison at the North Pole. 
Of course there could be no "Merry Christmas" without their "patron saint", 
so guided by the "Fairy Godmother" they start for the North Pole to rescue 
him. The "Old Witch" endeavors to block the rescuers' way by the as- 
sistance of **01d Zero" and the "Snow Fairies'* but when they learn that 
the snow drifts they are piling up are to aid in keeping "Santa" from his 
usual Christmas activities they get the "Sunbeam Fairies" to come to their 
aid and melt the snow, while they bind with a frozen cord the "Old Witch," 
who is found indulging in a nap which she takes only once every hundred years. With the "Old 
Witch" powerless and in their control the Rescue of Santa is an easy matter. 
Tho' belated somewhat by his enforced stay at the North Pole, the children are glad to become 
his "aides" in spreading a "Merry Christmas" through all the world. This is a very clever plot, 
well worked out, and will make a decided hit for the Christmas season. 4 Boys and 5 Girls with 
any number of Fairies. Time about 1 hour. Price 25 cents. 





FARCES 



Taking the Census. Mr. Cole, the Census Taker, has a funny experience 
in an attempt to gather the facts required by the government from Mrs. 
Almira Johnson, a "cullud lady," and her young son Alexander. Three 
characters only. Time about 10 minutes. Price 10 cents. 

Answering the Phone. Mrs. Courtney and her daughter have a most try- 
ing experience with Nora Flanagan, the new "hired girl," who in their 
absence attempts to carry out the instructions given with special reference 
to "answering the phone." The final situation in which Nora makes a date 
with Miss Courtney's "intended" is ridiculous in the extreme. 3 females. 
Time about 15 minutes.; Price 10 cents. 

The Twins and Ho|v^Jaiey Entertained the New Minister. They have a 

delightful time tellih'g family secrets to the "New Minister," who has 
called for the first time. They explain the necessity of seeing their mother 
lo find out from her if she is "In," for so often she is "Out" when she is "In" and "In" when she 
is "Out." 2 Males and 1 Female. Time about 15 minutes. Price 10 cents. 
NO ENTERTAINMENTS SENT ''ON EXAMINATION" 



The 

Christmas Wood 

A Play for Children 
In Two Acts 



By 
ELIZABETH F. GUPTILL 



PRICES: POSTPAID 
Single Copy . S -JO 

Per Dozen . . J.oo 



ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 

Public Performing rights giuen free 
njohen 12 or more copies are purchased 



265 West 36th Street, New York 14 W. Washington Street, Chicago 



Copyright iqis by Tullar-Meredith Co. 
International Copyright Secured 



A 



4^ 






A.- 



Mary 



JIabel 



Characters 

Girls of 10 o?' 12 ijeai ; 
Lena Grace 

Poor little girls of 10 or 12 years 
Margie Cassie 



Marion 



Betty 



Goblins. Boys of \0 or 12 years 

Selfishness Greed Envy Thoughtlessness Vanity 

Sulkiness Passion Curiosity Falsehood 

Disobedience Cruelty Sloth 

Girls of \b or 16 
Christmas Spirit Love Nightmare 

Sprites. Little Girls of 1 or S years 

TJnselfi.sliness Generosity Good Will Thoughtfulness 

Faith Joy Peace Hope Truth 

Obedience JVIercy Industry 

35 Characters. 28 Female, 12 Male 
©CI.A471220 

JUL 111917 



Costumes 

The Little Girls wear simple white dresses. When they go iu search of 
Santa, they put on caps and coats. The dolls should also have wraps 
The Poor Little Girls wear faded calico or gingham dresses, clean, but 
noticeably patched; old shoes, darned stockings; hair neatly combed, but 
tied with string. If the shoes are laced ones, lace them with white string. 
Nightmare has streaming black hair, a black cap, cut in two points like 
cat's ears. In the front of the cup is painted a fiery eye. Her long, black 
robe has a scarlet border coming up unevenly, like flames. The robe is 
girded in with a scarlet cord. She should be as U\\\ as possible. She 
carries a switch, and has a large toy spider, fastened to a long, elastic cord, 
concealed in her bosom. A small black dog, which will go to her when 
she whistles, is detained behind the scenes till the proper time for his 
entrance. He should be small enough to be carried, Dragons cut fi'oni 
crepe paper may ornament Nightmare's robe, if liked. 
Love wears a robe of white, a girdle of heavy gold tinsel, also a tiara oH 
the tinsel, which must be wired, to keep it in shape. She carries a tall, 
slender staff, covered with gold tinfoil, and having at the end a large heait 
of gold. This is made of cardboard, covered with gold tinsel by winding 
it around the heart. Gold paper can be used to cover the heart, but is 
not nearly so pretty. Both sides must be covered. 

The Christmas Spirit wears a robe of decorated crepe paper, which may 
be had with holly leaves and berries on a white ground- Her giidle is of 
evergreen, and she wears a crown of holly. Slie caii-ies a large wreaih of 
evergreen, with a red bell inside. The girdle of trailing evergreen may be 
tipped with little red bells. 

The Goblins are dressed in suits of black cambric, with yellow siripes 
sewed on crosswise. The blouses are plain and full, stuffed so as to give 
the appearance of round bodies. The trousers are tight-fitting, the stock- 
ings have pointed toes. No shoes are worn. C;ips, trousers and stockings 
all have yellow stripes. The caps are close-fitting skullcaps, which hitle 
the hair. Each boy must be trained to act his own character. Let 
Greed eat cookies, Vanity admire himself in a hand mirror, Curiosity 
carry a microscope, etc. 

Thk Little Pink Spirits wear short pink dresses of cheesecloth, mo-qu to 
netting, or crepe paper. They have square necks, short sleeves, and t!ie 
skirts hang full from deep yokes. Around the yoke is a sash three inches 
wide, tied at the left side of the front in a rosette of four loo))s, and liaviuii' 
two long ends reaching nearly to the bottom of the skirt, 'riiese m;iy be 
made of crepe paper, and must match the costume. The ends of the 
streamers are pointed, and a tiny bell sewed at each point, also one in the 
centre of the rosette. The stockings may be pink or white, with white 
slippers, or both may be black, but all nmst be alike. The hair may be 
tied with a big bow of the crepe paper, or a wreath of pink paper roses 
may be worn. Each carries a pink ribbon about an inch wide, and a yard 
long, to which tiny bells are fastened. One bell is at each end, the 
others at intervals along the ribbon. 



Scene I. 

Four little girls are seated around a fireplace, holding dolls. Above the 
fireplace hang their stockings, also those of the dolls, and two or three 
more, for the brothers of whom they speak. 
All sing. Tune: Wait for the Wagon 

We're waiting here for Santa Glaus, 

Before the fire so bright. 
It is the merry Christmas Eve, 

He'll surely come tonight. 
Upon the stroke of midnight, 

When the fire is burning low, 
He'll come and fill the stockings 
From the top to the toe. 
Chorus 
Come, dear Old Santa, 

Come, dear Old Santa, 
Come, dear Old Santa, 

We are waiting for you I 
Our naughty little brothers say 

That Santa isn't true. 
If they should turn out to be right, , 

Oh, dear I What should we do? 
For Christmas without Santa 

Would very dismal be — 
A row of empty stockings 
And a bare Christmas tree! 
Chorus 
{They gaze expectantly at chimney a minute, then Lena speaks.) 
Lena. What do you hope he'll bring? 
Grace. A pearl ring and a necklace — 
Mary. Books and games. 

Marion. A really large doll. Not a rag one, either. 
Lena. I want a Persian kitten and a pair of skates. 
Mary, And a double runner — a real ripper! 
Grace. That's a boy's word, and a boy's present. 

Mary. Well, I guess the boys haven't the only right to have double- 
runners! Besides, I saw you on Lawrence Elliott's the other day, and 
if you could coast on his, why not on your own? 
Grace. Oh, I'd be afraid! I can't steer. 
Mary. Well, I can, and I will, if Santa'U only bring me one. Then I'll 

take you to ride. 
Lena. She'd rather ride with Lawrence. 
Grace. No such thing! 
Marion, Don't get mad, Gracie. Lena's only teasing. 



The Christmas Wood 



Grace. Well, she'd better not, tonight. Santa miglit hear. 

Lena, So he might. 1 won't tease you aii}^ more, Gracie, till after 

Cljristmas. I do hope Santa'll bring me a new doll. Mine is so shabby. 
Grace. I sliotdd think slie would be. You're awfully hard on your doll. 

You left her out of doors two or three nights last summer, when we 

were all here at Grandpa's. 
Lena. Fresh air is good for children. It's quite the tiling to sleep out 

doors. 
Marion. Oh, dear! I'm so sleepy! I'm afraid I'll go to sleep before he 

gets here. It's ever so late, I'm sure, 
Mary. Do you suppose it can be true that there isn't any Santa Glaus, 

and the fathers and Mothers fill the stockings? Bobby thinks so. 
Grace. Bobby's a regular atheist. 
Lena. What's an atheist? 

Grace. Why — a — a person who doesn't believe the Bible. 
Marion. Why, Grace! Santa isn't in the Bible! 
Grace. No — but it's just about as bad not to believe in him, I think, 
Mary. I noticed that Bobby hung up his stocking, and Ted, too, and 

Harry, 
Lena. Yes, and they wanted to sit up and watch with us, only Grandma 

wouldn't let them. She said it was silly to watch for some one they 

didn't believe in. 
Marion. ( Yawning.) Well, I'll surely be asleep before Santa gets here- 

I always am. 
Lena. Let's go meet him. That'll keep us awake. 
Grace. But which way would we go? 
Marion, Both ways. Then we'll be sure to find him. 
Mary. All right. You and Grace go up the road, and Lena and I will 

go down the road, hke Red Riding Hood and the Wolf. 
Lena. And whichever meets him, tease him to go back for the others. 

J'ra going to take my doll, so he can see how bad I need another. Better 

leave yours behind, Grace. She looks most new, 
Grace. No, I'm going to take her. When he sees how nice Marguerita 

looks, he'll be sure to give me a really big one, for he'll know I'll take 

good care of her. 
Marion. Guess I'll take Rosabelle. She's neither very nice, nor very 

shabby, but I'm sure she'd like to see Santa. How's your doll, Mary? 
Mary. About so-so, like Jack Sprat's pig. But she must have her things 

on, or she'll take cold. 
( They have been putting on caps and coats while talking. They now 

put on the dolls' wraps, and go out together.) 
(CURTAIN) 



Scene II. 



(An open spot in a Wood. A wood/and !<cene in the background is all 
that in nece.-i,iary. Mary and Lena enter, and Lena throws herself down 
on the ground ) 

Lena. Oh, dear! I'm tired to death, and I've no more idea where we 

are than the man in the moon! You might as well sit down, Mary. I 

shan't move another step till I'm rested. 

Mary, {Sitting down beside Lena.) I'm afraid we're lost, Lena. We 

must have been tramping for hours, and I'm sure 1 never was here before. 

Lena. It must be most morning, Where do you suppose Grace and 

Marion are? 
Mary. Oh, I expect they're lost, too. 'Twas silly, anyway, to go hunt- 
ing for Santa Cluus. Probably he's come and filled our stockings before 
now, and if we'd sat right still and waited, we'd iiave seen him. 
Lena. Perhaps the others saw him. 
{Grace and Marion enter from opposite side.) 
Marion. No, we didn't. 
Mary. Why, how did you get here? 
Grace. We walked, of course. But where is here? 
Lena. But you went tlie other way! Do you sni)pose we've each gone 

halfway round the world, and met on the other side? 
Mary. Of course not, Lena. Don't be silly. 
Lena. Well, I feel as if I had. 
Grace, So do I. {She and Marion sit down,) 
Marion. But where do you suppose we are? 
Mary. Well, we must have. gone in a circle, to meet. But I think we 

must be in the south, it is so warm. 
Lena. Isn't it? And the trees are green. {They pull off" coats and caps ) 
Marion. How are we to get home again, I'd like to know. 
Grace, Perhaps we never will. If we only knew where we were — 
Mary. We do. We're here. 
Lena. But where's here? 

{Voice outside sings 'Ln the Christmas Wood,^^ ivhile girls look around 
for singer.) 

IN THE CHRISTMAS WOOD 
Tune: Michael Roy 
1 You^re out in the Christmas Wood tonight. 
You've wandered far away, 
Strange things they hear, strange things they see, 

Who in this wood do stray. 
But little girls have naught to fear, 

If only they are good, 
They'll learn what most they wish to know 
Out in the Christmas Wood. 



The Christmas Wood 



Chorua 
For, oil, for oh! If you be bad or good. 
You surely will astouished be, out in the Cliri^tnias Wood. 
2 You've come to look for Santa Claus — 
From home you rau away! 
And iu this wood, ou Cliristmas Eve, 

Strange things abroad do stay. 
When naughty childreu wander liere, 

Then here they must remaiu, 
And wander in the Christmas Wood 
Till Christmas comes ngain. Cho, 
Grace. Why, we did run away from Grandpa's house! We never told 

anyone we were going. 
Mary. We didn't mean to run away. What do you suppose will happen 

to us? 
Lena. Pooh! I'm not afraid, and 1 like to be astonished. Who do you 

suppose was singing? 
Marion. The fairies. 

Mary. There aren't any fairies, are there? 

Grace. Of course there are. This is an enchanted wood, I'm sure. Every- 
thing is queer, you know. Don't you be an atheist, too, Mary. 
Lena. What's an a'heist? 
Marion. There, Lena, don't ask so many questions. Grace told yon 

once tonight. It's a person who doesn't believe in the Bible. 
Lena. Fairies aren't in the Bible! 
Marion. Xo, but — 
Lena. Well, why don't you just say "unbeliever?" I'd know what that 

meant. Grace uses such long, starched-up words. 
Grace. Why, Lena! L^nbeliever is a good deal longer word than atheist. 
Lena. Well, it means something, and that pet word of yours doesn't. 
Mary. Sh! Someone's coming! 

( They step back to one i^ide of stage. Nightmare enters, dancing vildly 
to center of dag e, and mngs.) 

NIGHTMARE'S SONG 
Tune: Solomon Levi 
1 Oh, I'm the Nightmare, fierce and wild. 
At night I gaily ride 
Upon a broomstick through the air. 

My black cat by my side. 
I go to where bad children lie 

In cribs and cots asleep, 
And bring to them such dreadful dreams, 
They toss and moan and weep. 



The Christmas Wood 



Chorus 
Yes, I am the Nightmare, 

Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha! 
The fierce, howling Nightmare, 

Ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha, ha. 
I love to creep around your beds, 

When you are sound asleep, 
I love to bring you dreadful dreams 

That make you toss and weep. 

2 If in your lessons you have failed, 

Or rules you've disobeyed, 
If you have told a naughty fib. 

Or quarreled as you played, 
If you've been selfish, coarse or vain. 

Or greedy, like a pig, 
Then i-ound your little pillows, 1 

Will dance the Nightmare jig. Cho. 

3 I have an ugly, clawing cat, 

And a snappy little dog, 
As cross as X, as bold as brass. 

And spry as any frog; 
Around your pillow they will howl. 

And scratch and bark and bite, 
Until you wake with a fearful yell. 

And your hair stands stiff with fright. Cho. * 

Lena. {Adde.) Oh dear! What a dreadful old woman ! 

Nightmare. Dreadful yourself. Don't you call me an old woman, you 

little snippet! You'll be old yourself some day, and grizzled and lame 

and toothless and bald and deaf and cross and ugly! 
Lena. Oh dear! I hope not! 

Nightmare. {To Grace,) Don't you want to see my doggie? 
Grace. No, thank you, I don't like dogs very well. 
Nightmare. That's because you're bad! You're afraid of him. He can 

scent a naughty child a great way off. I expect he's chasing after one 

now; but don't you worry, he'll soon be here. Oh, won't you be glad 

to see him! Ha, ha, ha! 

Sings. Tune: Dutch Warbler 

Oh where, oh where is my little dog gone? 
Oh where can that charming beast be? 
He snaps and he bites and he howls and he fights. 
Oh, a dear little doggie is he! 
Mary. {Aside.) I should think so! 

Nightmare. I know you're just aching to see him. Here, Scorpion! 
Scorpion! Scorpion! Where in the world is he? Well, never mind, 



W The Christmas Wood 

little dears, while you're waiting I'll show yon another of my pretty pets. 
He's cuddled in here, snug and warm, asleep. I expect, {Peeps into 
the front of her gown.) 

Lena. What is it? 

Nightmare. Oh no, he isn't asleep. He's wide awake, and wicked as 
ever. I think he must he hungry. Poor darhng, did he want to come 
out and kiss the pretty little girls? So he should! 

Lena. But what is it? 

Nightmare. My pet, I tell yon. Well, he should come out. so he should! 
{Draw.^from her bosom a large toy .spider. Lena, who has drawn 
near, Jumps back in alarm. ) 

Nightmare. Come and kiss him, pretty dear. 

Lena. Ugh! He's horrid! 

Grace. Dreadful! 

Marion. Hideous! 

2Iary. You see, we're not very fond of spiders. 

{Nightmare swings htm by elastic. Girls scream as he comes near.) 

Nightmare. Hark! I think I hear my little dog, now. 

( Whistles, and dog runs in. She picks him up.) 

Nightmare. Yes, here's Scorpion, the fine doggie! He's a dear, snappy, 
snarly little dog. I'll make him siiai-l and snap at you, directly, you 
girl that a<ks questions. {Bends hi'ad to dog, appears to listen to him.) 
What is it. Scorpion? Oh yes, I'll go at once. {To girls.) We've 
some busuiess on hand just now, but we'll be back again. Oh, yes, we'll 
be back again, Nipperjaws and Scorpion and I, and maybe Yowler, my 
cat — my dear, hideous, scratching, spitting, biting, caterwauling black 
cat! Such ears as he has! He can hear you ^/iin^ bad words! He 
can hear you plan to tell a lie in your mind! I'll bring him if I can find 
him. Goodbye, httle dears. Don't cry for us, for we'll be back again. 
Oh yes, we'll be back again. {Swings spider at girls again, and goes 
out putting head back in again, to say.) Oh yes, we'll be back again, 
never you fear! 

Lena. She's a horrid, nasty old witch! 

Grace. Ugh! That dreadful spidei! 

Marion. And that disagreeable little dog! 

Mary. And she's gone to get her cat! 

All. Oh dear! 

{Piano strikes up a march.) 

Lena. What's coming now? 

{Goblins enter, and march around stage, each according to character. 

Passion stamps around, Sloth goes slowly, allowing oil to pass him. 

Sulkiness scuffles along, pouting. Curiosity stops in front of girls and 

stares, till all are in place, then scampers to place. Selfishness, Greed, 



The Christmas Wood // 

Envy aud Cruelty push and crowd and try to he first. Disobedience 
goes around the opposite loay from the rest. Vanity marches in time to 
the music, head up, as if well satisfied with himself. Falsehood goes 
straight to place, instead of marching around. Thoughtlessness keeps 
stopping, then rushing back to place. When all are in place, they sing.) 

Tune: Yankee Doodle 

1 Out in the Christmas Wood tonight, 

The Goblins bad are straying, 
To mischief do is our delight, 
It is our way of playing. 

Chorus 
Goblins in the Christmas Wood! 

Say, how do we strike you? 
Be you bad, or be you ^rood, 

The Goblins do not like you! 

2 Harm to mortals we will do, 

Whene'er we get a chance, sir. 
Aren't you glad we've met with you? 
Oh, say, why don't you answer? Cho. 

Marion. Well, we don't like you, either, so there, now! 

Lena. Where did the music come. from? 

Falsehood. There wasn't any music. 

Grace. Why yes, there was! We heard it. 

Vanity. 'Twas the Wood Orchestra, of course. Tihey always play when 

ive appear. 
Mary. Then why didn't you march in time to the music? 
Salkiness. 'Cause we didn't want to. 
Disobedience. Because we never do as we're told, or as we think anyone 

wants us to do, 
Thoughtlessness. We can't bother 
Lena. Who are you? 
Envy. Goblins. 

Grace. Nonsense! There aren't any goblins. Papa said so. 
All the Goblins. (Pointing and hissing at Grace.) Atheist! Atheist! 
Lena. What's an atheist? 

Grace. There, Lena, we told you twice. An unbeliever. 
Envy. Yes, an unbehever. So you don't see us? 
Grace. Of course I see you. I'm not blind. 
Passion. Then what do you mean by doubting us? 
Sloth. Don't quarrel. It's too hard work. 
Curiosity. What do you call yourselves? 



[2 The Christmas Wood 

Mary. Girls, of course. 

Thoughtlessness. Nonsense! There aren't any girls. 

Lena. Of course there are. Don't you see us? 

Falsehood. No. 

Greed. I do. Are you good to eat? 

Marion. Of coarse not. 

Cruelty. Let's bite them, just to see. 

Lena. The idea! Do go away. 

Envy. No, you go away. You're so homely! 

Greed. If you're not good to eat, I've no use for you. 

Curiosity. {He rattles off the questions so fast that they cannot answer.) 

What's your name? Where did you come from? How old are you? 

What did you come here for? Got any brothers and sisters? How 

often do you get a whippinfr? How much did your clothes cost? Where 

did you get those dolls? How long — 
Lena. There, do stop a minute! 'Twill take a week to answer all your 

questions. 
Curiosity. Why, you like questions, you know you do. You're always 

asking them yourself. You're my twin sister. 
Lena. I'm not! 
Curio.nty. Oh yes, you are. How long is your nose? What's it good for? 

Do )ou keep a pig? Did you ever have a pet tigei? 
3fary. I should think your name was Curiosity. 
Curiosity. So it is, * 
Grace. Do you all have names? 
Sulkiness. Of course. Haven't you? 
Grace. Yes, but — 

Passion. Then what do you mean by saying we haven't? 
Grace. Why, I never! 
Falsehood. Yes, you did. 
Thoughtlessness. It's just the same thing. 

Lena. But what are your names? I know that one. (Points.) 
Curiosity. Yes, your twin brother. 

Lena. [Stamping her foot.) I'm not a sister to any ugly little striped 
Goblin! 

Passion. Ugly yourself. I guess you're my sister. I'm Passion. Don't 

you ever get mad, you — girls? 
Grace. Sometimes, of course. 
Passion. Then you are my sisters. I get mad, too. I like to. I love 

to scream and fight and bite and kick. This is my favorite pas ime. 

( Throws himself on floor, kicking and screaming ) 



The Christmas Wood /J 

Mary. Well, I d m't want to be your sister. I shall try not to lose my 

temper. 
Cruelty. My name's Cruelty. Are any of you my sisters? 
Marion. No indeed. 
Cruelty, Did you ever tease the baby? Did you ever forget to feed the 

kitten, or to give the dog a drink of water? 
Marion. Yes, but — 
Cruelty. Then you are! I love to make the babies cry, and tlie dogs 

bark — it's music. I like to drown the kittens and whip the horses. I 

like to slap and scratch and bite and piiicli! Just let me pinch your 

arm once. 
Marion. I guess not! {Cruelty pinches Lena, who screams.) 
Selfishness. Don't make such a noise. I don't like to hear it. 
Grace. Who are you? 

Selfishness. I'm Selfishness. You're my twin sister. 
Grace. I'm not. We're none of us any relation to any of you. 
Selfishness. Oh yes, you are! Aren't you the girl who w^ouldn't let her 

baby sister hold her doll this morning? 
Grace. Well, I was afraid she'd break it. 
Selfishness, Of course you were. I never lend any of my things. I don't 

want them spoiled, I like to play my own way. I like to be first. 

I like the warmest corner and the softest seat. 1 have 'em, too, I just 

take 'em, that's the way. {He slyly pushes Passion aside, and takes 

his place. Passion screams.) 
Stdkiness. I don't want any of you to be my sisters, I'm sure, though 

that girl is. {He points at Mary.) 
JIary, No such thing! Who are you, anyway? 
Sulkiness. I'm Sulkiness. You're sulky, too. Didn't you pout half an 

hour yesterday, because you lost your place in the spelHug class? Didn't 

you wear a frown to the picnic because you couldn't wear your party 

dress? Didn't you refuse to go out to play because Minnie Carter was 

there? 
Mary. Well, I don't like Minnie. She — 

Sulkiness. So you sulked. That's just the way I do. I love to. 
Mary. I don't love to. It makes me unhappy. 
Stdkiness. But you love to feel unhappy. I'm going off into that corner 

and have a good sulk now. Come along, and let's sulk together. {Tries 

to take her hand.) 
Mary. Indeed I shan't. Go alone, 
Stdkiness. All right, I'm sure I don't want you. {Sits down in corner 

and sulks.) 
Falsehood. I'm Falsehood. You're all my sisters. All liars, every one 



14 The Christmas Wood 

Grace. Why, we're uot! And that's not a nice name to call any one. 

FaUehood. It's not a nice thing to be, either, but you are. Didn't you 
tell your little sister you hadn't any more candy? Didn't you {to Mti.ry) 
tell your teacher that you got all your prol)leiiis right, when your l)ig 
brother did two of tiiem for you? Didn't yon {lo Marion) say "perfect," 
when you'd been whispering? Didn't you {to Lena) tell your mother 
that you hadn't touched the jam? 

Lena. Ho! That was just a tarradiddle. 

Grace. Jnst a small yarn. 



Mary. On 


ly a 


white lie. 


















Marion. ' 


lisu't wicked to 


tell 


little 


fibs. 


Everyone 


does. 


You 


do, 


yoarself 






















FaUehood. 


Of 


course I do. 


I 


o'lorv 


in it. 


It's 


mv nature. 


I love 


to 


tell great 


big 


whoppers! 


Big 


hes! 


You're my 


si.^ters 


, all ri 


ght. 





Marion. We don't tell big whoppers! 

FaUehood. Yes you do. Yes you do, There's no sucli thing as a fib, a 

tarradiddle, or a white lie. If it isn't the truth, the whole truth, and 

nothing but the truth, it's a lie, a big, black lie, and the one that tells 

it is a liar. I'm a liar, and so are you. We're all liars together. We 

love to be. 
Mary. Well, Ave don't love to be, and I'm just going to be careful to tell 

the truth. We don't want to be like you. 
Lena. It's dreadful to be a liar. 

FaUehood. So it isn't, it's fun. Look out for that snake! 
GirU. (Jumping.) Where? 

FaUehood. Nowiiere. You forgot my name, didn't you? Ho, ho! 
Greed. {Pushing FaUehood a^nde.) Say! Have you any candy? Any 

cake? Auy gum? Any kind of goodies? Do give me souje. I'm. hungrv. 
Grace. I'm sorry, but tliis is all I have. {Given Mm a piece of candy, 

which he eats greedily ) 
Greed. More. 

Lena. I should think bread and butter would be better, if you're hungry. 
Greed. I'm always hungry. I never had enough to eat, 
Marion. Poor thing. 

Envy. Ho! You needn't pity him. That's Greed. 
Mary. I don't like greedy folks. 
Lena. Nor I. 

Greed, Why, you're greedy. 
Lena. No sir. 
Greed. Don't you always choose the reddest apple, the biggest orange, 

the prettiest doll? Don't you buy candy with every penny you get? 

Of course you're greedy. 



The Christmas Wood l5 

Grace. Oh dear! I wish we could get out of this dreadful place! 
ThoughtlefifiiWHS. Come on! I'll show you the way. (He leads, they 

follow, here and there, aroiuid and around, till he suddenly stops to 

Jump over Passion several times.) 
Mary. You don't seem to be showing us the w^ay out very fast. 
Thoughtlessness. Oli, was I showing you the way out? I forgot. 
Grace. Well, go on, now youVe remembered. 
Thoughtlessness. Oh, 1 can't bother now. Besides, I've forgotten the 

way. 
Marion. I think you're real mean. What's your name? - 
Thoughtlessness. I forgot. Same as yours, I guess. 
3Iarion. The idea! The same as mine! 'Tisn't either, and I don't be- 
lieve you've forgotten your own name. You couldn't. 
Thoughtlessness. Have though, honor bi-ight. It ought to be the same 

as yours. We have the same watchword. 
Marion. We haven't! What is it? 
Thoughtlessness. It's "I forgot". Aren't you always forgetting? Didn't 

you forget the baby the day she fell from her high-chair? Don't you 

forget your errands and your lessons? 
Marion. Sometimes; but I never forget my name, and you didn't forget 

yours, I know. 
Envy. {Pushing him aside.) His name is Thoughtlessness, He never 

remembers anything. I'm envy. I wish I had that pretty ring. 1 

guess I'll take it. 
Mary. I guess you won't. 
Envy. {To Lena.) I suppose you're proud of your pretty hnir. I'd like 

to cut it off! (To Grace,) I'm going to smash that (h)ll! {To Marion ) 

Want me for a brother? 
Marion. No, I don't. 
Envy. You said you didn't like Elizabeth Harrington because she was 

rich, and had pretty clothes and a })ony. 
Marion. I wasn't envious. 
Envy. Yes, you were. I know! 
Vanity. {Strutting up.) You'll all want to be my sisters. See how 

straight 1 am. See how bright I am. See how bright my eyes are, 

and how pretty I am. Isn't my suit handsome and becoming? Doesn't 

it fit well? Isn't my figure good? See how graceful I am! 
Lena Who are you? 
Vanity. Your sweetheart, dear. Vanity. 
Lena. I'm not vain. 
Vanity. Don't you hke to look in the mirror? Don't you" switch this way 

in a new dress. Don't you cry if you have to wear a patch, or old shoes? 



r6 The Christmas Wood 

Lena. No matter. 

Vanity. Dou't be sulky, dear. I like to be dressed up, too. Come, let's 

walk to the brook together, and acimire ourselves in the water — ^^just we 

two. We're pretty. Come. {She gives him her hand, hesitatingly.) 
Vanity. Hold your. head up, so, and walk so, aud try to look just like 

me. 
Lena. {Draws her hand away.) I don't want to look like you. I'm 

not going to be vain. 
Goblins. {Derisively.) But you were, and you looked just like him. 

You thought you were pretty. Oho! Miss Vanity! Miss Vanity! 

{Lena turns away.) 
Disobedience. That's right. Don't mind him. Don't mind your mother. 

Don't mind your teacher. Don't mind anybody, I never do, If any 

one tells me to do a thmg, I won't do it even if I want to. 
Mary. Then I know your name. It's Disobedience. 
Disobedience. Yes, you all know me. You all like me. It's fun to do 
. just as you please. 
Marion. But you ought to mind, or you'll grow up bad, and every one 

will dislike you. 
Disobedience. I want 'em to. I don't like any one, and I don't want 

any one to like me. And goblins never grow up. They're stunted. 
Lena. What's stunted? 
Disobedience. Find out, 
Grace. It's when sometliing stops your growth, and you never get any 

bigger. 
TJioughtlessness. We're all stunted. We're glad of it. Copy us, aud 

you'll be stunted, too. 
Grace. No, thank you. 

Lena. {Goes up to Sloth, who lies on the Hoor.) Who are you? 
Sloth. Dou't bother. I'm sleepy. 
Lena. But won't you just tell me your name? 
Sloth. Too much trouble. 
Falsehood. He hasn't any name. 
Envy. Y^es. he has. It's Sloth. 
Lena. What's Sloth? 
En vy. Laziness. 

Grace. Do sit up a minute, aud answer. Is that your name? 
Sloth. 1 guess so. 
Grace. Oil, you lazy thing! Don't you know? 



The Christmas Wood /7 

Sloth. Perhaps. Don't make me think, it's too hard work. You like to 
be lazy yourself, jou know. Isn't it delicious just to lie still and do 
nothing all day? No lessons, no tedious practicing, no dishes, no tire- 
some play. 

Grace. But I like to play. 

Soth. Dream you're playing. It's just as much fun, and lots easier. Just 
lie on your back, and stretch and yawn and sleep. It's a perfect life. 

Mary. A dreadfully lazy life, and you're no good to the world. 

Sloth. But the world is good to me. It's just a great feather bed to 
snooze in. 

Ilary. Well, I should hate to be you. 

FaUehood. You'll all be goblins pretty soon. You're beginning to 
change. 

Lena. {Beginning to cry.) I don't want to be a goblin. I wish I 
could get out of this dreadful wood, 

{Music is heard. Curiosity looks off, then speaks.) 

Curiosity, She's coming! She's coming! 

{Goblins huddle together. Christmas Spirit enters.) 

Christmas Spirit. {To Goblins.) What are you doing here? 

Sulhiness. It's Christmas Eve. 

Christmas Spirit. I know. So for an liour you have been permitted to 
wander in the Christmas Wood, to teach your lessons to any child who 
might stray here also. But now, begone! The Spirit of Christmas is 
abroad, and your respite is over. Begone! 

Sulkiness. We want to stay. 

Disobedience. I shan't go. 

Christmas Spirit. The Christmas Wood is no place for you. You have 
none of the Christmas peace and good will in your hearts. Besides, the 
little Pink Spirtes are on the way, and you know you cannot live in 
their presence. Hark! 

{Sprites shake their bells behind the scenes.) 

Thoughtlessness. I hear them. Come « n. {Rushes off.) 

Greed. I want to live long enough to get filled up once. I'm going. 

( They go, each according to character.) 

Grace. I'm so glad they're gone. 

Marion. Horrid things! 

Mary. And they knew all the naughty things we'd said or done. 

Lena. Who are you, pretty lady? 

Christmas Spirit. {Sings.) 



fS The Christmas Wood 

Tune: Manic in the Air 

1 Oh, I'm the Christmas Spirit, 

Joyful is the news I bring, 
It sounds throuo'h starlit skies 

Where the Christmas angels sing. 
Since the Christ Child's wondrous birth, 

Peace now reigns o'er all the earth; 
Clad good will and joy and mirth 

Doth the Christmas Spirit bring. 

2 l-')vc is abroad tonight, 

And the little Sprites so good. 
You need not fear the Goblins 

Out here in the Christmas Wood; 
For the chorus echoes still, 

"Peace on earth, to men good will," 
Soundeth over vale and hill, 

Echoes in the Christmas Wood. 

Mary. Then why were the ugly Goblins here? 

Marion. They didn't seem to have any good will toward anything. 

Christmas Spirit. They are your faults incarnate. 

Lena. What's incarnate? 

ChriatmaH Spirit. In the flesh, dear. Your naughty ways and hal)its 

were given bodies so that you might see how bad they really are. Evt-ry 

time you give way to your temper, or disobey, or tell a falsehood, y>.u 

grow more like them. 
Marion. I don't want to be like them. They are so hateful, and they 

looked like hornets. 
Christmas Spirit. And they are like them They sting far woi-sc than 

hornets can, for they sting the soul. Once a year they appear bodily 

to show themselves in all their deformity. That is on Christmas Eve. 

The rest of the time, they live in hearts that will harbor them. 
Marion. Well, they're not going to live in my heart any longer. 
Lena. Who are the Sprites? Their bells frightened the Goblins away. 

Shall we see them? 
{Ih'Ui^ begin to ring again.) 
Chri.4mas Spirit. They are the virtues — the opposites of the Gol)lins. 

They are coming now. Hear the bells? 
Marij. Yes, indeed. What a pretty, tinkling chime. 
Ghridnia-H Spirit. It is the chime of the Christmas bells — the joybells 

If you take the little Sprites into your hearts, the joybells will ring in 

your homes all the year. 
(^The Sprites come tripping lightly in, ribbons held in both hands. They 
trip around the .^tage in a circle, then form semicircle, and sing:) 



_^ The Christmas Wood /p 

Tune: Jingle Bells 

1 Tirio;-a-liiig-a-ling! 

The wee pink Sprites are we. 
Just hear our joybells ring, 

Brimful of Christmas glee, 
Bells of good will and peace, 

Of happiness and mirth, 
Of joy and love that ne'er shall cease 

To ring o'er all the earth. 

Chorus 
Ting-a-ling, ting-a-li ng, 

Hear the joybells ring! 
Ting-a-ling-a-ling-a-ling, 

While happy voices sing. 
Ting-a-ling, ting-a-ling, 

Wee pink Sprites are we, 
Ting-a-ling-a-ling-a-ling, 

Brimful of Christmas glee. 

2 Ting-a-ling-a-ling, 

Hark! 'Tis the Sprites so good. 
'Tis Christmas bells they ring 

Out in the Christmas Wood. 
We chase the Goblins bad. 

And drive them far away, 
With joybells ringing sweet and glad. 

We chase them off to stay. Cho. 
{Whenever they sing "Ting-a-ling,^^ they hold ribbons high, and dance 
round in their places, making the bells ring. During the ringing of last 
half of each verse, swing ribbons. Care should be taken not to have them 
/urn in the same direction more than twice in succession, as some children 
get dizzy very easily.) 

Lena. Who are you, you dear little things? 

Unselfishness. Unselfishness a dear Sprite is, I'm sure you'll all agree. 
Thoughtfulness. And Thoughtfulness for others, her twin must surely be. 
Good Will. Good Will is what the angels sang- a Christmas Sprite 

indeed. 
Generosity. Generosity freely gives, wherever she finds need. 
Industry. Industry is always busy- a faithful worker she. 
Truth. Clear truth swerves not a hair's breadth, whate'er the cost may be. 
Obedience. Obedience doth in all things mind. 
Mercy. And Mercy fair is always kind. 
Faith. Sweet Faith doth calmly trust and wait. 
Hope. Hope hath an anchor sure. 



20 The Christmas Wood 

Peace, Sweet Peace, the blessed Christmas Peace, forever shall endure. 
Joy. Bright Joy upon the Christmas Eve shall in all hearts be found. 
All. Good Sprites are we, that on the earth should everywhere abound. 
AIL (Sing a.s hefore.) 

Tino;-a-ling-a-ling, 

The wee pink Sprites are we. 
Just hear our joybells ring, 

Brimful of Christmas glee. 
Oh, take us to your hearts. 

We'll make your Christmas bright, 
And every day through all the year, 

We'll bring you sweet delight. Cho. 

Christmas! Spirit. Are not these better examples to imitate than the 

Goblins? 
Children. Yes indeed. 
Grace. Vm sure Pd rather be like them. 
Lena. Is there any one else in the Christmas Wood? 
Christmas Spirit. Be patient, little one, and you shall see. 
Grace. I hear music, some one's coming. 
Lena. Is Santa Claus here, too? 
Christmas Spirit. Santa Claus? 

Marij. Yes, we came to find him. Can you bring him here? 
Christmas Spirit. Xo, little maiden; he is but a myth. 
Lena. What's a myth? 
Grace. Don't ask so many questions, Lenn. 
Marion. She means he's only make-believe. 
Lena. Oh, dear! I wanted him to be true. 
Christmas Spirit. Wait, little one, and see who comes now. 
(Love enters.) 
Christmas Spirit. ( To Love.) Here are some children who are looking 

for Santa Claus. 
Love. For Santa Claus? Here? 
Mary. Isn't there any Santa Claus, really? 
Grace. We did so hope there was. 
Marion. I think there must be. If not, where do all the presents come 

from? 
{Love advances, and sings. The Sprites form two slanting lines, with 
Love in the centre. The lines should not reach quite up to where she 
stands, to give room for the motions. Love sings the verses. The 
Sprites, led by the Christmas Spirit, sing the choruses,) 



The Christmas Wood 2/ 

Love. {Sing.^.) Tune: Fair Harvard 

1 You have wandered afar to the fair Christmas Wood, 

And have entered its portals so green, 
That are open for only one night in the year, 

And not often l)y mortals are seen. 
But the one that you seek isn't here, little girls, 

That old Saint who's so jolly and good; 
And yet you have found what you're seeking, my dears, 
Out here in the fair Christmas Wood. 

Chorus. ( Tune of last half of verse. ) 
For Santa Claus' real name is Love, httle girls, 

Yes, Santa Claus' real name is Love. 
So you've found what you sought in the fair Ciiristmas Wood, 
For old Santa Claus' real name is Love. 
{Swing ribbons through first tivo lines of chorus. At close of chorus, 
hold right hand out and up, toward Love, the ribbons in both hands. 
Retain position through interlude,) 
Love. {Sings.) 

2 All tlie gifts that you find in your stockings, my dears, 

When so eagerly you run to see, 
All the candles fo bright, and the dollies and toys, 

That adorn your beloved Christmas tree, 
'Tis Love that has brought them to you, little girls, 

From your friends and your parents so good, 
For Love is the queen of the world, little girls. 
As she's queen of the fair Christmas Wood. 
Chorus 
She's queen of the fair Christmas Wood, little girls, 

Yes, Love is the queen of the Wood, 
And the Sprites are all bowing before their fair queen, 
The queen of the fair Christmas Wood. 
{During the singing of first line of chorus, Sprites move forward to form 
a semicircle in front of Love. At beginning of second line, kneel. At 
beginning of third line, bow, holding ribbons in both hands, like a gar- 
land, just touching the floor. At beginning of lad line, raise heads, and 
hold ribbons outward and ttpward, toward Love. Bise during interlude.) 
Love. {Sings.) 

3 For Love has a heart of pure gold, little girls, 

A heart that is tender and true; 
And she breathes out a blessing on true Christmas gifts. 

It is Love, dears, that send them to you. 
For presents without any love, little girls. 

Would only be bought and be sold, 
And Love to the rich and the poor, too, is free, 

For Love has a heart of pure gold. 



22 The Christmas Wood 

Chorus 
For Love has a heart of pure gold, little girls, 

Yes, Love has a heart of ])ure gold, 
And Love to the rich and the poor, too, is free, 
For Love has a heart of pure gold. 
( During (he singing of first two lines of Chorus, swing ribbons. During 
llird Hue, hold them high. During fourth line, point toward Love's 
stdf with right hand, from which the ribbon hangs. 

Lore. {Sings ) 

4 It was Love, dears, that gave to tlie weary old world 
The dawn of the first Christmas Day. 
'Twas God's love for you all sent the dear Christ Child down, 

He that slept in the manger of hay. 
So search ye for Santa no more, little girls, 

You'll not find him, below or above; 
It is Love brings the presents to you Christmas Eve. 
For Santa Clans' real name is Love. Cho. 
{TIii.-< chorus is the same as the first one. At close (fit, the Sprites 
dance around in a circle, and out.) 
JLiry Then Love is only another name for Santa Claus. Perhaps he 

doesn't always look the same. 
Love. Indeed he doesn't. Love takes many forms. 
Lena. But if Love is free to rich and poor, why are there so many poor 

children who don't have any Christmas presents? 
Love. Because those who have the money haven't always Love in their 

hearts. 
Christmas Spirit. They that harbor the Goblins never have any. 
Love. But those who welcome the Sprites have hearts brimful of Love. 
Now you couldn't all be Santa Chiu.^-, but you can all have love enough 
in your hearts to make Christmas for just one poor little child. 
Grace, Why, so we can. I never thought of that. 

Jjove. If you have Love in your heart, ynu Avill think of many ways to 
make others happy. Remember, the little Ciu'ist Child was poor. 
Giving to the poor, is giving to Him. 
[Enter poor children. They sing.) 

Tune: Just before the Battle, Mother. 
1 We are just poor little children. 
Come for Santa Claus to seek. 
If we just could see him coming. 

To him we would surely speak. 
We would tell him all our troubles, 

Ask him why he passes by. 
Christmas morning, empty stockings 
Make poor children sob and sigh. 



The Christmas Wood , 23 

Chorus 

Santa never comes to our house, 

Just because we're poor, you see; 
Never fills our waiting stockinu's. 

Brings to us uo Christmas tree. 

2 Never liave we owned a dolly, 

Thougli we want one awful bad! 
If you liad no d(»ll to cuddle, 

Don't you think that you'd be sad? 
If \<)u liad no books or playthings, 

Never saw a Christmas tree, 
PLkI to wear such sliabby dresses, 

Think how sorrowful you'd be. Cho. 

3 So we'i'e hunting for old Santa. 

If our troubles he could know, 
He d remember us next Christmas, 

Don't you little girls think so? 
If this year he'd only bring us 

Just a little Chi-istmas tree, 
Bring us each a little dotly, 

Oh, bow happy we would be! Cho. 

Mary. You p )or little things! Here, take my dolly. I've four or fivp 
iL home. 

Grace, This one is most as good as new. I've been very careful of her 

Marion.. And here's mine. You're welcome to her, I've had so manv. 

aud I'm so sorry for you. 
Lena. Mine's pretty old, but perhaps she'll seem nice to a little girl who 

never had one. I wish I'd been more careful of her. 
{As each spmk^, she gives her doll to one of the poor children, who kixs 
the dolls, and fondle them rapturously.) 

Marion. But there isn't any Santa Claus. We came to look for him, 
too, but he isn't real. 

Betty. Not real! Are you sure? 

Mable. We always thought he was. 

Margie, Perhaps he's somewhere else. Lei's hunt some more, 

Lena. You wo I't find him. We didn't, either, but — 

Cassie. Oh dear! Then we can't ever have a Christmas tree. 

Marion. But Christmas trees are real, and Love is real so maybe you can. 

Grace. Love dear, can't you find a way? 

Love. Love can always find a way. (To Christmas Spirit.) Call the 
Sprites. 



24 The Christmas Wood 

{The Chridmas Spirit bloiV!> a .silver whistle, and the Sprites come danc- 
ing in, and dance around children, singing first verse and chorus of 
their song, as before. After singing, they dance around, each one step- 
ping up as they speak, till they surround the children.) 

Unselfishness. Who needs us? 

Christmas Spirit. These children. 

Generosity. We're always glad to help. 

Faith. AVe can, I'm sure. 

Industry. We're willing to work. 

Obedience. And to do as we're told. 

Peace. What do you want us to do? 

Grace. These children have never seen a Christmas tree. 

Thoughtful ness. And you want us to bring them one? 

Grace. Oh, can yon? 

Hope. Nothing is impossible in the Christmas Wood on Christmas Eve. 

Truth. To those who will accept our help. 

Mercy. We're very sorry for you. 

Good Will. And we'll be glad to get you a tree. 

Joy. Christmas should be a happy time to every one. 

All the Sprites. We'll bring it, never fear. ( They dance out, singing 
viiui us.) 

Mjrg'c, Who are they? 

Mary. Christmas Sprites — Joy, Hope and thinsrs like that. 

Betty. I didn't know we could see them. 

Mirion. You can here, on Christmas Eve. 

Cassie. Where are we? 

Christmas Spirit. In the Ciii-istmas Wood. 

Mihd. And who are yon, — a princess? 

Chris/mas Spirit. I am the Spirit of Christmas. My Sprites and I 
m:ike the world better. If only they are willing, we could make every- 
one good and haj)py. 

/>'//?/. And who ai-e yon. lovely lady with the gokU-n heart? 

L re. Love, the brightest and best of all. 'Tis Love that makes Christ- 
mas joyful. 

(^Sprite.< come back, bringing a small, gaily decorated tree. Christ m as 
Spirit places it in place prepared for it, on stage. Sprites form cir'-''- 
around if, singing.) 



The Christmas Wood 25' 



1 Tin<>'-a-ling-a-liiig! 

We've brought your Christmas tree. 
It sparkles bright and gay, 

As pretty as can be. 
Foi" poor as well as rich 
Should happy be and gay, 
When dawns upon the wintry world 
The Merry Christmas Day. 

Chorus 

Ting-a-ling, ting-a-ling, 

Dance around the tree. 
Ting-a-ling-a-ling-a-liiig, 

With faces full of glee. 
Ting-a-ling, ting a-ling, 

Happy be and uay, 
Dance around the the tree and sing 

To welcome Christmas Day. 

(S/>ritf^s step to either i<ide, and rhildi^en form a circle around tree, Jirst 
a i>oor child, then one of the little girU in white, etc. BelU chime behind 
scene. ) 

Sprites, The bellsl The bells! Tlie Christm:is l)olLs! 

Cliristmas Spirit. It is I he Christmas Morn. You must return. 

Children. But the tree! 

Christmas Spirit. There will be a tall, beautiful tree in Grandpa's parlor 
tonight, with i)lenty of toys and goodies for you all. 

Love. And your little stockings hang by the fireplace, stuffed full as they 
can be. 

Grace, Bat these little girls? 

Thoughtfidness. They live on the same street with your Grandpa. 
Good Will. You can easily find them. 
Generosity. There'll be enough for you all. 
Unsel/i.xhne.ss. If you are williuii: to share. 

Mart/. Why, so we will! Grandma always says we each have enough 
for two. 

Lena. And so we do. You shall share our Christmas this year, little 

gills. 
Marion. Yes, we'll each share with one of you, and eight little girls will 

be happy, instead of only four. 
Poor Children. Oh! It's too good to be true. We'll really have a 

Christmas. 



26 The Christmas Wood 

All the Sprites, 

Aud we will all go with you, 

Though us you ciuiuot see, 
And Peace in all your little hearts, 

Aud Joy, shall ever be. 
But keep the Goblins far away, 

Lest in your heart they creep; 
But in your hearts and in your lives, 

The little Sprites e'er keep. 

Love. Remember, think of others. 

Christmas Spirit. And spread the Christmas cheer. 

Love, Spirit and Sprites. {Together.) Then in your hearts it surely will 

be Christmas all the year. 
{All sing the last song. During chorus, the Chislmas Spirit wares 
wreath, Love sways her staff, Sprites sway rH)bons. held in both hands, 
and children dance around tree.) 

Tune: "Tramp, Tramp, Tramp, the Boys are Marching.''^ 

1 Dance around the Christmas tree. 
Little hearts brimful of glee, 

'Tis the happiest day in all the happy year. 

Now has dawned the Christnnis Day, 

To our (youi) homes we (you) must away, 

There to spread abroad the Merry Christmas Cheer. 

Chorus 
Merry Christmas! Merry Christmas! 
Dance around the Christmas tree. 
On the Merry Christmas Morn, 
When the Holy Child was born, 
All the children should be happy as can be. 

2 Do you know the nicest way 
You can keep the Christmas Day? 

Listen! AVe Avill tell you just the thing to do. 

Find some little child that's poor. 

Fill its wee hands running o'er, 

Tjct it share your pretty Christmas tree with you. Cho. 

3 Christ in Bethlehem was born 
Long ago on Cliristmas Morn, 

In a manner rude He slept upon the hay. 

And a gift to Him you make. 

If you do it for His sake, 

When you make some poor child happy Christmas Day. Cho. 

{At close of last chorus, poor children form, line in front of tree, other 
(firls behind it, tree showing, while Love and the Christmas Spirit sta)id 



The Christmas Wood 27 



in the background. The piano play ^ the veme and chorua again ^ poor 
children holding dolh over shoulder i<, patting them gently, through verse; 
hold them in both hands, and sivay them to and fro, during chorus. 
Sprites {six in each side of platform) hold ribbons in both hands, left 
hand low, right hand high, and march in wheel to music. At close 
form tableau.) 

TABLEAU 

Sprites remain in wheels, look up. 

Poor children clasp dolls tightly to brest, gaze at tree. 

Other children gaze at them, hands clasped in joy. 

Christmas Spirit and Love stand back of tree, on either side, and hold 

heart and loreath above it, while they smile at children. 
Bells may chime behind scene. 

(CURTAIN) 

(If this is followed by a Christmas tree, let the gifts be taken from the 
tree by Love and the Christmas Spirit, and distributed by the Sprites.) 



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ft New Tickler for your Funny Bone 
ft Stimulator for Depleted Treasuries 



Cupid and the Chorister 

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Herr Lover's Dilemma 




A Musical Entertainment in one Act 

Libretto by H. Mac Donald Barr Music by Carl F. Price 

The most interesting, mirth-provoking entertainment which we have 
been privileged to see or hear in recent years. It goes right to your funny 
bone with a new kind of tickle. 

It provides a whole evening of the finest fun without for an instant sug- 
gesting the vulgar or commonplace. There is a laugh in every line of the 
libretto and a lilt to every brace of music which make it irresistible. The 
spell cannot be broken by the fall of the curtain for the oft repeated strains 
of "Loving's the way to spell Living" are sure to echo and re-echo long after 
the entertainment is over. 

This entertainment is easily within the ability of the ordinary church 
choir with augmented chorus. Special costumes are needed by only three 
or four characters, the chorus being in ordinary dress. No elaborate stage 
setting is necessary, a neat platform with an adjoining room, or with a door 
I eing the only requisites for its presentation. A piano should be on the 
platform. 

The Story 

Professor Herr Lover has written a cantata, the rehearsal of which he 
is to conduct. He has proposed marriage to the leading soprano, Ledgoline 
Topsee, but she is afraid he lacks the quality of patience, and plans, with 
the aid of her friends who compose the cast, to utilize the rehearsal to test 
him in that respect. After tolerating a series of aggravating interruptions and delays on the part of the singers, he at 
last gives away to a burst of angry passion, only to discover what he has lost by so doing. By a clever surrender, how- 
ever, he turns defeat into victory, and the affair ends happily. 



Professor Herr Lover, A little Anxious Tenor 

Xerxes Strong, A little Weak Bass 

F. Sharp, A little Blunt Baritone 

Fillup Pipes, A little Big Baritone 

A. Dagio. A little Slow Bass 

Prophundo Basso, A little Deep Bass 



Cast 



Ledgoline Topsee, A little High Soprano 

Gracie Note, A little Light Atto 

Addaline Crescendo, A little Swell Soprano 

Miss Keys, A little Inattentive Pianis* 

Jim, The Janitor, A little Noisy 

CHORUS 



This play given by your Church Choir, Young People's Society or Ladies' Aid will prove a financial success beyond 
your fondest dream. Someone will give this in your vicinity. Why not be the first and reap the benefit for your 
church or society? Price 60 cents per copy. Performing rights reserved. Write for prospectus with Special 

Introductory Proposition. 

At The D epot 

A Play in one Act for six Children and eleven Adults 



10 Males 7 Females. BY ANNE M. PALMER Time of rendition about 30 minutes. 

There is probably no place better adapted to the study of. human nature in all its peculiar phases than is a 
Railroad Station. Here the opportunities for an exhibition of those qualities representing ones real character are botli 
numerous and varied. 

Be it kindness or crankiness, pessimism or optimism, generosity or stinginess, humor or pathos, these qualities are 
all apt to find expression "At the Depot." In this play there are possibilities of a liberal education along this line. 

The station master and ticket agent have their troubles trying to care for a lot of inconsiderate travelers of the 
most peculiar.type. Tim the newsl)oy, Mrs. Brown and Willie, a badly spoiled and meddlesome boy Miss Smith, an 
elderly school teacher. Richard Martin, a real live cowboy. Mr. Jones, a crabbed old gentleman and Mrs. O Brien with 
four small children are among the characters that furnish the fun and help to make At the Depot a most interest- 
ing and entertaining play. Price 23 cents per copy, $2..50 per dozen. Postpaid. 

We send on request a complete Catalog of Entertainments and Plays. !T iS FRFE 



New York 



TULLAR.HEREDITHCO. 



Chicago 




POPULAR ENTERTAINMENTS 

THE RAG SOCIABLE. A quaint old fashioned entertainment which is always sure to 
please. Libretto by Edith S. Tillotson. Music by various Composers. The dialog is very 
spicy and interesting, and humor and pathos are beautifully blended in the various musical 
selections. The characters include Mrs. Winters and her two daughters Betsy and Maria, 
Miss Jemima Rush. Mrs. Bassett, Mrs. Collins, Mrs. Salina Grey, the Allen twins (elderly), 
Mrs. Martha Ann Hall. Miss Eliza Hall, Mrs. Jane Tompkins and Amant-a Tompkins. The 
jist of characters may be extended ad. lib. to meet local conditions. 

A fine entertainment for a class of women or girls. Ladies* Aid. Christian Endeavor and 
Epworth League Societies, etc. Price. 25 cents per copy. 

LOVE FINDS THE WAY, or The Detective That Father Hired. Music by Chas. H 
GabrieL Words by Rev- Wm. Danforth, author of "The Old District School," etc. A 
highly amusing farcical song-skit, with four characters: A Determined Young Lover, 
an Irate Father, a Daughter with a Will of Her Own, and an Aiding and Abetting Mother- 
parts: tenor, basso, soprano and alto. 

This composition consists of singing and dialog for each part and will serve to enliven any 
entertainment. The music is moderately easy, melodious and should be available in 
practically all communities. This work consists of some 12 pages in sheet music form. 
The story is as lollows: A father, who objects to his daughter having a beau, believing that she is planning to elope 
with an unknown young man, advertises for a detective to ferret the matter out. The young lover answers the ad- 
vertisement, and tae father hires him to detect the culprit, promising to pay him "anything within reason." When 
the young lover's ti ue identity is disclosed, he demands as his reward, for having detected himself, the hand of the 
daughter The irate father objects. The daughter eventually convinces him that true love was the real detective in 
the case, and the parental consent is given. Price, $1.50; 50 per cent discdhnt. 

THE OLD DISTRICT SCHOOL. A farce in two acts (.new version). Book by Wm. Danforth. Music arr. by Geo. F. 
Rosche. This is a burlesque on the district school of 100 years ago. Ezekiel Simpkins, the teacher, is the central char- 
acter His costume is a tight Prince Albert coat, with brass buttons, or a worn and faded "claw-hammer" coat, colored 
vest cut low; stock collar, with large black tie; trousers, "high-water," with a patch of other color on one knee; well- 
worn shoes. Bald gray wig and "side" whiskers The costumes of the pupils are in keeping with those of the teacher. 
The characters all read their lines from the book, so that there is yery little to be memorized and for this reason this 
work can be prepared in a very short time. Price, postpaid, 50 cents per copy. 

THE CHAPERON. A humorous Operetta in three Acts. Libretto by Wm. Danforth. Music by Geo. F. Rosche. 
"The Chaperon" is a humorous operetta designed for church choir and young people's societies. It will be found avail- 
able in all communities in which seven young men and seven young ladies who sing can be found. The music is bright, 
tuneful, easy to learn and easy to remember. The dialogue is witty, clean, wholesome and entertaining. Price, post- 
paid, 60 cents pe^ copy . 

THE VISION OF HENSEL. An evening with the old songs. The old songs of child- 
hood, youth, love- war and home. Libretto by Elian N. Wood. There is no friend like 
an old friend and after all there are no songs we love quite so much as the old ones= 
This cantata furnishes a beautiful medium for the introduction of the old songs which 
we all know and love. There is just enough libretto to the work to form a continuous 
chain of thought throughout, and we know of no cantata that will afford such a pleasing 
entertainment at such a small expenditure of labor The book is well worth its price if 
only to secure this fine collection of old home songs. Full of sentiment, humor and 
pathos and decidedly new and fresh in construction. Price. SOcents per copy, postpaid; 
$3.00 per dozen, not prepaid; add 3 cents per copy for postage. 

THE SPINSTERS' CLUB. A humorous operetta m two acts. Libretto by Hartiet D, 

Castle. Music by Geo. F. Rosche. "The Spinsters" Club" is a humorous operetta 
designed for church choirs and young people's societies. It will be found available in 
all communities in which a church choir is found. The music is bnght, tuneful, and 
yet easy to learn and memorize. The dialogue is witty, pleasiu^ -^nd entertaining. 
Frice, postpaid 60 cents per copy. 

Only a few of our most popular Entertainments and Plays are listed on this and the two following pages. A 

complete Catalog of Entertainments and Plays will be mailed on request. 



1 



THE VISION 
OF HENSEL 



^^i»*^ 



ILLUSTRATED PANTOMIMED HYMNS 

NEARER MY GOD TO THEE. Posed under the direction of Eleanor H. Denig. This is a particularly fine produc- 
tion and lends itself admirably for a twelve-minute addition to an evening's entertainment in the church or hall. The 
instructions are very clear so that this pantomime may be prepared by anyone with ordinary talent or ability. The 
fourteen full figure halftone illustrations will be found an excellent help. 

The music is very complete. The regular hymn tune is printed for mixed voices; also an original quartet for voices of 
women and an original setting for voices of men and an original duet for soprano and alto by J. S. Fearis, thus furnish- 
ing a variety of music found in no other publication of this sort. Price, 40 cents postpaid. "Not sent on examination.** 

IT CAME UPON THE MIDNIGHT CLEAR. Posed under the direction of Eleanor H. Denig. This pantomime will 
be particuariy interesting during the winter season for a twelve-minute addition to church or other entertainments. 
The directions are very elal)orate, enabling any person to prepare the same successfully The music is very complete, 
consisting of a hymn tune for mixed voices; an original setting for voices of both womenand men: also a very fineduet 
soprano and alto; the latter by Chas. H. Gabriel, Price. 40 cents per copy postpaid.. "Not sent oa examinatito.'' 



LIBRftRY OF 



N«w York 



TULLAR-HEREDITH CO. 




017 198 




JUVENILE XMAS CAn 

SANTA'S JOY FACTORY (New 1912). Text by Edith Sanford Tillotson. Music by I. H. 
Meredith. The plot is laid in "Santa's"' workshop, which has for its motto "Joy for all Hearts". 
The various toys and dolls become for the time real live characters and take part in the cantata 
by dialog and song, to the amusement of both old and young. Prominent among these are the 
funny "Jack-in-the-Box". "The Noahs Ark Animals ' and the "Little Japanese Dolls' , with thee 
songs and sayings, while the charm of the "Negro Mammy'sLullaby' will linger long in the hearts 
of ail who hear this delightful cantata. Prite 25 cents, net, postpaid. 

KORONATION OF KING KRIS KRINGLE. Libretto by Fred. Emerson Brooks. ^ Music by 
I. H. Meredith. This cantata is especially commendable from both a literary and a musical stand- 
point. It is one of the best combinations of wit, humor and pathos that it is possible to find in any 
one cantata. One verse of the song entitled "The Spickety Man" will make everybody happy, 
while "Aunt Cloe'" a characteristic negro mammy, helps to make every moment of the evening 
enjoyable, in witty sayings and humorous songs. Price, 2c^cents net. 
HOW SANTA CLAUS EXPLAINED. Libretto by Jean M. Thompson. Music by Carl F. Price. An up-to-the- 
minute cantata full of bright catchy songs and choruses with just enough laughable easy-to-learn dialog tu carry it 
along. Be sure to examine this one if you would give the children an evenings entertainment that all can enjoy. A 
laugh on every page. Price. 25 cents, net, postpaid. 

TO SANTA'S LAND WITH THE DREAM MAN. Libretto by Lizzie DeArmond. Music by L H. Meredith. The children 
want to visit Santa Claus' Land, but not knowing the way are prevented until the coming of the Dream Man, who 
offers to lead them there and bring them back in safety the next morning. The Dream Man comes as soon as the 
children are asleep and with his help they cross the Bridge of Dreams, where they find the things which always delight 
the children's hearts in "Santa's Land' '. The Dream Man, true to his promise, brings them all home in good season, 
and as thpy cross again the Bridge of Dreams they awaken to the fact that the true joy of Christmas is in the coming 
of the Christ Child and not in Santa Claus after all. Closes with a song of rejoicing because Christ the Lord is born. 
With a little effort this can be made very beautiful. Price 25 cts., net, $3.00 per doz., postpaid. Full orchestration $2.50. 
MOTHER GOOSE'S VISIT TO SANTA CLAUS. Libretto by Lizzie DeArmond. Music by 
I. H. Meredith. This cantata is sure to delight both old and young. Mother Goose as the chief 
character, and her retinue of relatives, take you on a charming visit to Santa Claus. This cantata 
has some decided musical hits, among which are the songs "I'm the Little Bird that Tells" (pub- 
lished also in sheet music form), "Old Dr. Foster", "Twinkling Stars". "Lazy Tom", "Songof the 
Snow Fairies", "We're the Dolls that Santa Left Behind", and closes with the beautiful chorus, 
"Hail, Father Santa Claus". Price 25 cents, net, postpaid. 

IN WINTERLAND. Libretto by Lizzie DeArmond. Music by J. W. Lerman. King Winter 
rules in this cantata and with his willing subjects, "North Wind", "Jack Frost the Painter", 
"Frost Fairies", "Sunbeams", "Rain Drops", etc., etc., they weave a magic spell of joy about each 
heart at the Christmas season. It is principally a cantata of singing with just enough dialog or 
recitation to make it a connective whole. The musical numbers, "I'm Jack Frost the Painter", 
"Sleigh Bell Song", "Songof the Skaters'* and "The Coasting Song" are decided hits. Santa 
Claus with his pack full of toys appears and sings one song, which could be omitted if no Santa 
Claus is desired. Price, 20 cents, net, postpaid. 
JOLLY TIMES WITH THE SANTA CLAUS BAND. Libretto by Lizzie DeArmond. Music by I. H. Meredith. Santa 
Claus is accompanied by his band of ten boys who are full of fun and frolic, yet ever ready with a helping hand to 
assist old Santa in his efforts to bring good cheer to all. 

Their "Jolly Time" is made more delightful by the coming of "The Eight Wind Fairies", "Grandfather Clock", "Eight 
Japanese Girls', "Postman", "Uncle Sam ana Six Sa'lor Boys", "Columbia and Six Daughters", and numerous other 
original and interesting characters who take part in the festivities of the evening, which are climaxed by the closing 
chorus, "Hail the Gift of Love". Price. 25 cents, net, postpaid. 

UNCLE SAM'S CELEBRATION. Libretto by Lizzie DeArmond. Music by I. H. Meredith and J. W. Lerman. 
Uncle Sam and Columbia have a jolly time celebrating the Christmas season, m which Messenger Boys , Telephone 
Girls". "Postmen". "Newsboys". "Bootblacks". "The Weather Bureau Man .. Indians and vanousotherwell known 
characters take active part, principally in songs. There is very Uttle dialog m this cantata, and NO SANTA CLAUS. 
Price, 25 cents, net, postpaid. 

THE INTERRUPTED PROGRAM. Libretto by Elmer Ellsworth Higley. Music by I. H. Meredith. It tells of a 
school which started to render a Christmas Iprogram, but is always interrupted by spme unexpected person or thing 
which prevents the rendering of the program as planned, but provides one as entertaining and helpful as can be plann- 
ed with the talent you may have at your command. It lends itself to whatever conditions may prevail and is therefore 
adaptable to any school or community. Price 25 cents, net, postpaid. 

A SURPRISE FOR SANTA CLAUS. Libretto by Edith Sanford Tillotson. Music by I. H. 
Meredith. In this cantata. Mother Goose acts as hostess, assisted by her company of helpers 
while Santa Claus, that "Busy, Busy Man", is the guest of the evening, and instead of 
having to entertain the company as Santa Claus is usually expected to do. he is invited to a com- 
fortable seat and is royally entertained. This cantata contains only seven voca numbers and is 
one of the easiest ones to produce we have in our list. The speaking parts are all interesting and 1 
easy to render. Price, 25 cents, net. postpaid. 

YE THEEVING OF YE GOODE MYNCE PYE. Libretto by Josephine A. Van Tassel. Mu^c 
by Alfred Lincoln Schultz. This cantata is designed as an entertainment FOR, rather than BY, 
the children. It is to be rende. ed by the young men and the young women of the church or school, 
although the children might be utilized by a good conductor in the choruses and minor parts. 
This is an old English story and told in old English vernacular. But little staging or costuming 
A charming entertainment and a delight to all who may hear it Price 20 cents, net, postpaid. 
JOHNNIE DOUBTER. Libretto by Fred Emersom Brooks. Music by I. H. Meredith and Grant . ^., , ^^^, 

cXTlullar'The plot is so original, the characters so natural, the lesson so pmnted and withal so beautiful thai 
there^s a chaVm aboi t his ca^ seldom found in such works. Yes. there is a "Santa Glaus in spite of Johnnie s 
doubts but n this can ata he is so wholesome and so true to the highest ideals of what he should be that every Johnnie 
SteV" is bound to admit his presence at the Christmas season. Price. 25 cents per copy. net. postpaid. 





